Hi all - so I'm working with a 4 yr old paint mare who was bought at auction. She was broke by a cowboy, she has great brakes and is good with laterals and backing. She's improving a lot at the walk/jog - she's framing up and relaxing into her movement a little. The problem I have is any motion more foreward than that. If I try a lengthened posting trot, she pins her ears, puts up her head and sucks back. Same with the canter, unless we're out in the field. I've tried a few things - using seat to push her, using just leg, leg and little spur - i've also worked with her on a lunge and a long line, but it's just not improving much.
So, basically, the mare needs some help with free forward motion. But I do have one concern - she is used in a therapeutic riding program and needs to still be calm and not jumpy or overly-sensitive.
Please let me know if you've got any ideas.
Thanks.

I would be getting her looked at by a chiropractor and a massage therapist. Also triple check saddle fit. Sometimes you will think a horse is fine with a saddle but the canter is where it's really telling.

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